PELITA - The Methodist Church Newsletter
Listed below are articles abstracted from past issues of PELITA
August 2006 - Central District Leadership Training
On Saturday 6 May 2006, 32 church leaders from Central District gathered at the Tamil Methodist Church Ulu Klang for a one day training on leadership skills to enable them to be better equipped to serve the Lord.
The meeting started with a breakfast fellowship, followed by a get to know you session. The Central District Superintendent, Rev. Victor Vethamani presided over this session. As leaders of different churches seldom get the opportunity to meet one another often, this was a great occasion to know each other better.
Following this was a time of serious learning. Though it was considered serious learning, yet the atmosphere was a relaxed one. The topic Six Phases of Leadership Development was briefly introduced by Rev. Victor following which the participants were divided into 6 smaller groups. Each group was given the task to look at one stage of the development and to present in graphic form on a mahjong paper the obstacles and assistance available at every stage. The six phases that were discussed were, the Sovereign Foundation Phase, the Inner Life Growth Phase, the Ministry Maturing Phase, the Life Maturing Phase, the Convergence Phase and finally the After Glow or Celebration Phase. The group work was then presented by a representative from each group; while the others shared their opinions and feedback on the group work. The session ended with a time of prayer.
The afternoon session started with a time of worship and testimony sharing. Then it was group work again conducted by Rev. Dennis Raj. This time each group was given a discussion question and was asked to come out with the appropriate responses and suggest ways to overcome the problem. Among the discussion questions were:
1. Identify three common crises that repeatedly occur at the local level. What could be the reasons for this?
2. Crises often lead to disunity and negative spirit among church members. What steps could/should be taken to prevent this?
3. To whom do church members generally look to for resolving crises that emerge in church ministry? What help do members expect?
4. What help can the Lay Leader, LCEC Chairman and PPRC Chairman give to church members in resolving emerging crises?
5. Mention three qualities that a Christian spiritual leader should have to be an effective peacemaker in the church. How can these qualities be attained and developed?
After each group had given their presentation, Rev. Dennis Raj and all the other participants added input to each presentation. It was surprising to note that there were many solutions to the problems.
The training gave leaders a good knowledge of Leadership and in conclusion it can be said that the following results were achieved:
1. It was a good learning session for all who attended.
2. All agreed that leaders should always seek God's wisdom and His will.
3. Leaders have to spend a lot of time in the Lord's presence.
4. Individual as well as corporate prayers are essential in churches.
5. The area of human relationship is to be improved.
Rev. Elijah Bala (TAC)